Grease-like gel for repelling rodents

ABSTRACT

Grease-like compositions are provided for repelling rodents. The compositions utilize nontoxic mineral, synthetic, or vegetable oil based gels containing silica, clay, urea, polytetrafluoroethylene, or metallic soap thickeners and capsaicin.

INCORPORATION BY REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

Any and all priority claims identified in the Application Data Sheet, orany correction thereto, are hereby incorporated by reference under 37CFR 1.57. This application is a continuation of U.S. application Ser.No. 15/632,159, filed Jun. 23, 2017, which is a continuation of U.S.application Ser. No. 14/990,644, filed Jan. 7, 2016, now U.S. Pat. No.9,706,774, which is a continuation of U.S. application Ser. No.14/567,223, filed Dec. 11, 2014, now U.S. Pat. No. 9,258,997, which is acontinuation of U.S. application Ser. No. 14/256,811, filed Apr. 18,2014, now U.S. Pat. No. 8,940,767, which is a continuation of U.S.application Ser. No. 13/082,323, filed Apr. 7, 2011, now U.S. Pat. No.8,735,427,which claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Application Ser.No. 61/322,779, filed Apr. 9, 2010 and U.S. Provisional Application No.61/355,071, filed Jun. 15, 2010. Each of the aforementioned applicationsis incorporated by reference herein in its entirety, and each is herebyexpressly made a part of this specification.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

Grease-like compositions are provided for repelling rodents. Thecompositions utilize nontoxic mineral, synthetic, or vegetable oil basedgels containing silica, clay, urea, polytetrafluoroethylene, or metallicsoap thickeners and capsaicin.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

Nontoxic rodent repellents are a fast growing segment of the buildingimprovement industry, food processing, and food preparation areas.Rodents are carriers of communicable diseases, and thus preventing themfrom resting or congregating on the interior or exterior structures ofpublic buildings is particularly important because of health andsanitation concerns.

Compositions that are effective in repelling rodents, while exhibitingacceptable characteristics in terms of appearance, odor, and the like,are not readily formulated. If the composition has a strong repellentodor, it can actually be offensive to people within a short distance ofthe composition, thus reducing the likelihood that the composition willbe tolerable in public places. If the repellent component is too weak orinsufficiently dispersed in the composition, the composition will not besufficiently effective. If a composition does not remain adhered to arodent's feet after initial contact, the repellent in the compositionmay not take full effect.

There are a number of products that have been employed to repel birds.In U.S. Patent Publication No. 2005-0025796, multiple repellent agentsare used in a bird repellent composition. Capsaicin and menthol areused, in addition to carbomer gel, thickener, and water.

Another existing composition that contains capsaicin for repelling birdsis marketed under the trademark Tanglefoot Bird Repellent™ by TheTanglefoot Company of Grand Rapids, Mich. It is composed of onerepelling agent and one combined thickening, filling and dispersingagent. However, the composition lacks sufficient dispersion of therepelling agent because it has insufficient types of dispersal agents inthe composition to provide maximum dispersal of the repellent. It alsolacks sufficient tackifying qualities to sufficiently adhere thecomposition to the targeted species birds.

Nontoxic repellents for rodents (e.g., mice, rats, moles, voles,squirrels, chipmunks, and the like) are also commercially available.Such nontoxic formulations can emit the odor of predators (coyotes,foxes) or emit odors that are unpleasant to rodents (citronella,peppermint, menthol).

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

A grease-like gel that can be applied to any interior or exteriorsurface to deter rodent infestation is of great practical convenienceand economic advantage to the building industry. Nontoxic deterrentsthat provide long-lasting effect while not emitting an odor that isoffensive to humans are also desirable.

In a first aspect, a rodent repelling composition is provided comprising78.0 to 88.0 wt. % of a base oil selected from the group consisting ofsilicone oil, white oil, and combinations thereof; 5.0 to 12.0 wt. % ofa thickening agent; 5.0 to 10.0 wt. % of a tackifying polymer; 0.025 to0.10 wt. % of a repellent agent selected from the group consisting ofcapsaicin, piperine, allyl isothiocyanate, allicin, and combinationsthereof; and 1.0 to 2.0 wt. % of a solubility improving additive.

In an embodiment of the first aspect, the repellent agent is selectedfrom the group consisting of capsaicin and piperine.

In an embodiment of the first aspect, the composition comprises 78.0 to88.0 wt. % of white oil, 5.0 to 12.0 wt. % of fumed silica, 5.0 to 10.0wt. % of a tackifying polymer selected from the group consisting ofpolyisobutylene, polyalphaolefin, polybutene, ethylene/propylenecopolymer, and combinations thereof, 0.025 to 0.10 wt. % of capsaicin,and 1.0 to 2.0 wt. % of ethanol.

In an embodiment of the first aspect, the composition comprises 83.9 wt.% of white oil, 10.0 wt. % of fumed silica, 5.0 wt. % of polybutene, 1.0wt. % of ethanol, and 0.075 wt. %In an embodiment of the first aspect,the composition comprises 83.9 wt. % of white oil, 10.0 wt. % of fumedsilica, 5.0 wt. % of ethylene/propylene copolymer, 1.0 wt. % of ethanol,and 0.075 wt. % of capsaicin.

In an embodiment of the first aspect, the composition comprises 83.9 wt.% of white oil, 10.0 wt. % of fumed silica, 5.0 wt. % ofpolyisobutylene, 1.0 wt. % of ethanol, and 0.075 wt. % of capsaicin.

In an embodiment of the first aspect, the composition comprises from1.0-2.0 wt. % olefin copolymer as a component of the tackifying polymer.

In an embodiment of the first aspect, the composition comprises 82.9 wt.% of white base oil, 10.0 wt. % of a fumed silica, 5.0 wt. % ofpolyalphaolefin, 1.0 wt. % of olefin copolymer, 1.0 wt. % of ethanol,and 0.075 wt. % of capsaicin.

In a second aspect, a method of repelling a rodent is provided,comprising applying a rodent repelling composition to a surface in anarea wherein rodents are to be repelled, the composition comprising 78.0to 88.0 wt. % of a base oil selected from the group consisting ofsilicone oil, white oil, and combinations thereof, 5.0 to 12.0 wt. % ofa thickening agent, 5.0 to 10.0 wt. % of a tackifying polymer, 0.025 to0.10 wt. % of a repellent agent selected from the group consisting ofcapsaicin, piperine, allyl isothiocyanate, allicin, and combinationsthereof, and 1.0 to 2.0 wt. % of a solubility improving additive,whereby rodents are repelled.

In an embodiment of the second aspect, the repellent agent is selectedfrom the group consisting of capsaicin and piperine.

In an embodiment of the second aspect, the rodent repelling compositioncomprises 78.0 to 88.0 wt. % of white oil, 5.0 to 12.0 wt. % of fumedsilica, 5.0 to 10.0 wt. % of a tackifying polymer selected from thegroup consisting of polyisobutylene, polyalphaolefin, polybutene,ethylene/propylene copolymer, and combinations thereof, 0.025 to 0.10wt. % of capsaicin, and 1.0 to 2.0 wt. % of ethanol.

In an embodiment of the second aspect, the rodent repelling compositioncomprises 83.9 wt. % of white oil, 10.0 wt. % of fumed silica, 5.0 wt. %of polybutene, 1.0 wt. % of ethanol, and 0.075 wt. % of capsaicin.

In an embodiment of the second aspect, the rodent repelling compositioncomprises 83.9 wt. % of white oil, 10.0 wt. % of fumed silica, 5.0 wt. %of ethylene/propylene copolymer, 1.0 wt. % of ethanol, and 0.075 wt. %of capsaicin.

In an embodiment of the second aspect, the rodent repelling compositioncomprises 83.9 wt. % of white oil, 10.0 wt. % of fumed silica, 5.0 wt. %of polyisobutylene, 1.0 wt. % of ethanol, and 0.075 wt. % of capsaicin.

In an embodiment of the second aspect, the rodent repelling compositioncomprises from 1.0-2.0 wt. % olefin copolymer as a component of thetackifying polymer.

In an embodiment of the second aspect, the rodent repelling compositioncomprises 82.9 wt. % of white base oil, 10.0 wt. % of a fumed silica,5.0 wt. % of polyalphaolefin, 1.0 wt. % of olefin copolymer, 1.0 wt. %of ethanol, and 0.075 wt. % of capsaicin.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENT

The following description and examples illustrate a preferred embodimentof the present invention in detail. Those of skill in the art willrecognize that there are numerous variations and modifications of thisinvention that are encompassed by its scope. Accordingly, thedescription of a preferred embodiment should not be deemed to limit thescope of the present invention.

A rodent repellent composition based on a grease-like gel compositionfor use on exterior and interior surfaces of a structure, such as homes,restaurants, and office buildings is provided. The repellent compositionis particularly preferred for use on rodents (e.g., mice, rats, moles,voles, squirrels, and chipmunks); however, the repellent is alsosuitable for use on other mammals, e.g., raccoons and opossums. Therepellent composition is suitable for use on any organism whichpossesses taste receptor cells sensitive to capsaicin or similarsubstances. Insects can also be repelled by the repellent compositionsof preferred embodiments; however, birds do not have the receptor towhich capsaicin binds, so it does not function as an irritant for them.

Unlike conventional rodent repellents that rely on odiferous componentssuch as menthol, the repellents of preferred embodiments rely on adifferent mechanism of action and thus can be odor-free. The repellentsof preferred embodiments work by the rodent making contact with thecomposition, which contains capsaicin, white pepper, or other componentsthat produce a strong burning sensation in the mouth upon ingestion, butwhich are odorless or relatively odor-free. Use of menthol and otherodiferous components conventionally employed in repellents is avoided,as such components can reduce the effectiveness of a gel repellentcomposition because it discourages rodents from making physical contactwith the composition.

Repellent Additive

The repellent ingredient of the compositions of preferred embodiments ispreferably capsaicin (8-methyl-N-vanillyl-6-nonenamide). It is theactive component of chili peppers, which are plants belonging to thegenus Capsicum. It is an irritant for mammals, including humans, andproduces a sensation of burning in any tissue with which it comes intocontact. Birds do not have the receptor to which capsaicin binds, so itdoes not function as an irritant for them. Capsaicin and several relatedcompounds are called capsaicinoids and are produced as a secondarymetabolite by chili peppers. Pure capsaicin is a hydrophobic, colorless,odorless, crystalline to waxy compound. Capsaicin is the maincapsaicinoid in chili peppers, followed by dihydrocapsaicin. These twocompounds are also about twice as potent to the taste and nerves as theminor capsaicinoids nordihydrocapsaicin, homodihydrocapsaicin, andhomocapsaicin. Besides the six natural capsaicinoids, one syntheticmember of the capsaicinoid family exists, the vanillylamide ofn-nonanoic acid. Table 1 provides a listing of several capsaicinoids.

TABLE 1 Scoville Capsaicinoid name Abbrev. heat units Chemical structureCapsaicin C 16,000,000

Dihydrocapsaicin DHC 15,000,000

Nordihydrocapsaicin NDHC 9,100,000

Homodihydrocapsaicin HDHC 8,600,000

Homocapsaicin HC 8,600,000

Nonivamide PAVA

Other components exhibiting similar properties can also be used as therepellent ingredient of the compositions of preferred embodiments. Onesuch preferred component is piperine, the active piquant chemical inwhite and black pepper. Allyl isothiocyanate, the active piquantchemical in mustard, radishes, horseradish, and wasabi can also beemployed, as can allicin, the active piquant flavor chemical in uncookedgarlic and onions. A particularly preferred repellent additive iscapsaicin, due to its lack of odor in purified form. Piperine alsoexhibits minimal odor in purified form. In applications where odor isnot a concern, allyl isothiocyanate and allicin can advantageously beemployed. While one repellent additive can advantageously be employed,combinations of two or more additives, e.g., capsaicin and piperine, arealso suitable for use.

The repellent additive(s) typically comprise from about 0.005 wt. % orless to 0.5 wt. % or more of the repellent formulation, preferably fromabout 0.025 wt. % to about 0.1 wt. % of the repellent formulation.

Solubility Improving Additives

Repellent additives are preferably employed in purified form; however,in certain embodiments it can be acceptable to provide at least aportion of the repellent additive in a form of powdered vegetableproduct (e.g., chili powder). The repellent additive can be mixed intoto the grease base in powder or other solid form, or in a solubilizedform.

To improve the solubility of the repellent additive or other additivesin the grease formulation, in certain embodiments it can be preferred toadd an activator agent or other solubility improver to the grease base(the term “solubility improving additive” as employed herein is used tocollectively refer to both activator agents and solubility improvers).Esters, such as polyol esters can optionally be employed as solubilityimproving additives. Alternatively, if the repellent additive isprovided in a purified form, the additive can be dissolved or dispersedin a suitable solvent, which is then mixed into the grease base.Suitable solvents for capsaicin include, e.g., hexane, chloroform,ethylacetate, ethyl ether, acetonitrile, acetone, and ethanol. Ethanol,petroleum ether, and dichloromethane are solvents for piperine. Allylisothiocyanate and allicin are soluble in most organic solvents and areslightly soluble in water. While any suitable solvent for the repellentadditive can be employed, if desired, ethanol, e.g., denatured ethanol,is generally preferred as the most environmentally acceptable activatoragent. When ethanol is provided in denatured form, it can containethanol in combination with other additives. For example, the denaturedethanol may contain about 1-99% ethanol and about 1-99% additives, about95% ethanol and about 5% additives, about 90% ethanol and about 10%additives, about 75% ethanol and about 25% additives, about 50% ethanoland about 50% additives. Additives employed in denatured alcoholinclude, for example, methanol, isopropyl alcohol, acetone, methyl ethylketone, methyl isobutyl ketone, and denatonium. In a preferredembodiment, the denatured ethanol contains 95% ethanol and 5% additives.

The solubility improving additive(s) typically comprise from about 0.25wt. % or less to 5 wt. % or more of the repellent formulation,preferably from about 0.5 wt. % to about 3 wt. % of the repellentformulation, and more preferably from about 1 wt % to about 2 wt % ofthe repellent formulation.

Base Oil Carrier

The capsaicin or other rodent repelling ingredient is provided in agrease-like base. Preferred grease-like bases include one or more baseoil or fluid components as a carrier. The oil or base fluid may includeany number of materials, which are typically divided into two groups:petroleum derived oils; and synthetic fluids, which are generallychemical reaction products. Petroleum derived oils include paraffinicoils, naphthenic oils, and aromatic oils. Synthetic fluids includingpolyalphaolefins, glycols, alkylated naphthalenes, alkylated benzenes,and esters have been used in compounding oil-based products.

It is generally preferred to employ base oils that are both low cost andexhibit low toxicity. Accordingly, light or heavy grade white oil (atransparent, colorless mineral oil composed mainly of C15-C40 alkanesand cyclic paraffins), preferably of a purity suitable for use in foodor cosmetics, is preferably employed as a base oil. Alternatively, or inaddition to mineral oil, vegetable oils can be utilized. Vegetable oilsare lipids (esters) derived from plants. Suitable vegetable oilsinclude, but are not limited to, coconut oil, corn oil, cottonseed oil,olive oil, palm oil, peanut oil, rapeseed oil, safflower oil, soybeanoil, sunflower oil, almond oil, casher oil, hazelnut oil, macadamia oil,mongongo nut oil, pecan oil, pine nut oil, pistachio oil, walnut oil,bottle gourd oil, buffalo gourd oil, pumpkin seed oil, watermelon seedoil, acai oil, blackcurrant seed oil, borage seed oil, evening primroseoil, amaranth oil, apricot oil, apple seed oil, argan oil, artichokeoil, avocado oil, babassu oil, ben oil, borneo tallow nut oil, capechestnut oil, carob pod oil, cassia oil, cocoa butter oil, cockleburoil, cohune oil, coriander seed oil, dika oil, false flax oil, flax seedoil, grape seed oil, hemp oil, kapok seed oil, kenaf seed oil,lallemantia oil, marula oil, meadowfoam seed oil, mustard oil, nutmegbutter, okra seed oil, papaya seed oil, perilla seed oil, pequi oil,pine nut oil, poppyseed oil, prune kernel oil, quinoa oil, ramtil oil,rice bran oil, royle oil, sacha inchi oil, tea seed oil, thistle oil,tigernut oil, tomato seed oil, wheat germ oil, algae oil, copaiba, hongeoil, jatropha oil, jojoba oil, milk bush, and petroleum nut oil.

Polyalphaolefins can be employed as base oil. Such polyalphaolefinsinclude high viscosity polyalphaolefins as described in U.S. Pat. No.4,827,064. For example, high viscosity polyalphaolefins possess a higherviscosity index than conventional polyalphaolefins of similar molecularweight. High viscosity polyalphaolefins generally exhibit higher filmstrengths than conventional viscosity polyalphaolefins are generally ofhigher viscosity than conventional polyalphaolefins of similar molecularweight, but exhibit lower pour points than the correspondingconventional polyalphaolefins. The lower pour point of high viscositypolyalphaolefins makes them suitable for use at lower temperatures thanconventional polyalphaolefins. High viscosity polyalphaolefins alsoexhibit superior oxidative stability than conventional polyalphaolefins.High viscosity polyalphaolefins are characterized by a uniform molecularstructure with low branch ratios. The branch ratio is the ratio ofmethyl (—CH₃) to methylene (—CH₂—) moieties in the molecular structure).High viscosity polyalphaolefins typically possess a branch ratio of lessthan about 0.19, while conventional polyalphaolefins branch possess abranch ratio greater than 0.2. The polymerization reaction by which highviscosity polyalphaolefins are formed is generally highly specific,resulting in a low number of isomers formed. The resulting highviscosity polyalphaolefin product oligomers have an atactic molecularstructure of mostly head-to-tail attachments, with some head-to-headconnections. High viscosity polyalphaolefins generally possess anaverage molecular weight of from about 300 to about 45,000, a carbonnumber of from about 30 to 1000, and a viscosity at 100° C. of about 3to about 5000 cSt. The viscosity is typically in the range of about 150to about 3000 cSt at 100° C. The branch ratio is typically less than0.19. A high viscosity polyalphaolefin is marketed under the trade nameSUPERSYN™ by Exxon Mobil Corporation of Houston, Tex.

Polyalphaolefin base oils suitable for use in formulations of preferredembodiments include EXXON Mobil Corporation's Spectrasyn™ line ofpolyalphaolefin fluid. Examples of Spectrasyn™ polyalphaolefin fluidinclude Spectrasyn™ 100, Spectrasyn™ 40, Spectrasyn™ 10, Spectrasyn™ 8,Spectrasyn™ 6, Spectrasyn™ 5, Spectrasyn™ 4, Spectrasyn™ 2C, andSpectrasyn™ 2. The viscosities of the Spectrasyn™ polyalphaolefin fluidvary. For example, Spectrasyn™ 100 and Spectrasyn™ 40 have relativelyhigh viscosities. Spectrasyn™ 100 has a viscosity of 1240 cSt at 104°F., and Spectrasyn™ 40 has a viscosity of 396 cSt at 104° F. Spectrasyn™10, Spectrasyn™ 8, Spectrasyn™ 6, Spectrasyn™ 5, Spectrasyn™ 4,Spectrasyn™ 2C, and Spectrasyn™ 2 have relatively low viscosities. Forexample, Spectrasyn™ 10 has a viscosity of 66 cSt at 104° F.,Spectrasyn™ 2 has a viscosity of 5 cSt at 104° F., Spectrasyn™ 2C has aviscosity of 6.4 cSt at 104° F., Spectrasyn™ 4 has a viscosity of 19 cStat 104° F., Spectrasyn™ 5 has a viscosity of 25 cSt at 104° F.,Spectrasyn™ 6 has a viscosity of 31 cSt at 104° F., and Spectrasyn™ 8has a viscosity of 48 cSt at 104° F. The viscosity of thepolyalphaolefin can be selected in order to achieve a formulation withdesired characteristics. Generally, it is preferred to employ a highviscosity polyalphaolefin so as to provide greater structural integrity,weather resistance and stickiness to the repellent formulation.

Alkylated naphthalene is generally employed as additional base fluid toimpart increased thermal and oxidative stability to a greasecomposition. See, e.g., U.S. Pat. Nos. 5,177,284 and 5,457,254. Mono orpoly substituted alkylated naphthalenes can be employed. Similar to thealkylated naphthalenes are the polymers of alkyl benzenes, such asdodecylbenzenes, tetradecylbenzenes, dinonylbenzenes,di-(2-ethyl-hexyl)-benzenes, and the like. Alkylated aromatics areformed by the reaction of olefins or alkyl halides with aromaticcompounds, such as benzene. Suitable alkylated naphthalenes can beobtained from EXXON Mobil Corporation.

Alkylated naphthalene fluids suitable for use in formulations ofpreferred embodiments include EXXON Mobil Corporation's Synesstic™ lineof alkylated naphthalene. Examples of Synesstic™ alkylated naphthalenefluids include Synesstic™ 5 and Synesstic™ 12. Synesstic™ 12 alkylatednaphthalene has a viscosity of 109 cSt at 104° F., and Synesstic™ 5alkylated naphthalene has a viscosity of 29 cSt at 104° F.

One preferred class of synthetic fluid bases is that of syntheticpolyolefins, particularly hydrogenated polyalphaolefins, although othersynthetic polyolefins may be utilized as well. Examples of the synthetichydrocarbon oils which may be utilized as additional synthetic fluidbase oils for the formulations of preferred embodiments are preferablysaturated. Such oils may be prepared by polymerizing unsaturatedmonomers (e.g., ethylene) and hydrogenating the resulting polymer priorto use to remove any residual unsaturation from the oil. Examples of thesaturated hydrocarbon and halo-substituted hydrocarbon oils includepolyethylenes, polypropylenes, polybutylenes, propylene-isobutylenecopolymers, chlorinated polybutylenes, poly(1-hexenes), poly(1-octenes),poly(1-decenes); polyphenyls such as biphenyls, terphenyls, alkylatedpolyphenyls, and the like; alkylated diphenyl ethers and alkylateddiphenyl sulfides and derivatives, including deuterated and hydrogenatedderivatives. The hydrogenated polyolefins derived from alphaolefins suchas ethylene, propylene, 1-butene, and the like are especially preferredfor use as additional synthetic base oils. In certain embodiments,however, it may be preferred to use a polyolefin derived from a branchedchain monomer, for example, isobutylene.

Dibasic acid esters can be employed as base oils. Polyol esters includemolecules containing two or more alcohol moieties, such astrimethylolpropane, neopentylglycol, and pentaerythritol esters.Synthetic polyol esters are the reaction product of a fatty acid derivedfrom either animal or plant sources and a synthetic polyol. Polyolesters have excellent thermal stability and generally resist hydrolysisand oxidation better than other base stocks. Naturally occurringtriglycerides and vegetable oils, as discussed above, are in the samechemical family as polyol esters.

Trimethylolpropane esters may include mono, di, and tri esters.Neopentyl glycol esters may include mono and di esters. Pentaerythritolesters include mono, di, tri, and tetra esters. Dipentaerythritol estersmay include up to six ester moieties. Preferred esters are typically ofthose of long chain monobasic fatty acids. Esters of C20 or higher acidscan be employed, e.g., gondoic acid, eicosadienoic acid, eicosatrienoicacid, eicosatetraenoic acid, eicosapentanoic acid, arachidic acid,arachidonic acid, behenic acid, erucic acid, docosapentanoic acid,docosahexanoic acid, or ligniceric acid, or esters of C18 or loweracids, e.g., butyric acid, caproic acid, caprylic acid, capric acid,lauric acid, myristoleic acid, myristic acid, pentadecanoic acid,palmitic acid, palmitoleic acid, hexadecadienoic acid, hexadecatienoicacid, hexadecatetraenoic acid, margaric acid, margroleic acid, stearicacid, linoleic acid, octadecatetraenoic acid, vaccenic acid, orlinolenic acid. In certain embodiments, it may be preferred to esterifypentaerythritol with a mixture of different acids. Particularlypreferred synthetic ester oils are the esters of trimethylol propane,trimethylol butane, trimethylol ethane, pentaerythritol and/ordipentaerythritol with one or more monocarboxylic acids containing fromabout 5 to 10 carbon atoms.

Polyol polyesters may be obtained by reacting various polyhydroxycompounds with carboxylic acids. When the carboxylic acids aredicarboxylic acids, monohydroxy compounds can be substituted for thepolyols. For example, synthetic esters include the esters ofdicarboxylic acids such as phthalic acid, succinic acid, alkyl succinicacid, alkenyl succinic acid, maleic acid, azelaic acid, suberic acid,sebacic acid, fumaric acid, adipic acid, linoleic acid dimer, malonicacid, alkyl malonic acid, alkenyl malonic acid, and the like. Thesedicarboxylic acids may be reacted with alcohols such as, for example,butanol, hexanol, dodecyl alcohol, 2-ethylhexyl alcohol, and the like.Specific examples of such esters include dibutyl adipate, di(2-ethylhexyl) sebacate, di-N-hexyl fumarate, dioctyl sebacate,diisooctyl azelate, diisodecyl azelate, dioctyl phthalate, didecylphthalate, and the like.

Silicon-based oils including siloxanes, such as polyalkylsiloxane,polyarylsiloxane, polyalkoxysiloxane, and polyaryloxysiloxane oils andsilicone oils may also be suitable for use as additional base oils.Specific examples of some suitable polysiloxanes include methyl phenylsilicone, methyl tolyl silicone, methyl ethylphenyl silicone, ethylphenyl silicone, propyl phenyl silicone, butyl phenyl silicone, andhexyl propylphenyl silicone. Preferred silicon-based oils also includesilicones such as alkyl phenyl silicones. Preferred alkyl groups foralkyl phenyl silicones include aliphatic groups, e.g., methyl, propyl,pentyl, hexyl, decyl, and the like; alicyclic groups, e.g., cyclohexyl,cyclopentyl, and the like; aryl groups, e.g., phenyl, naphthyl, and thelike; aralkyl groups; and alkaryl groups, e.g., tolyl, xylyl, and thelike; and halogenated, oxygen-containing, and nitrogen-containingorganyl groups such as halogenated aryl groups, alkyl and aryl ethergroups, aliphatic ester groups, organic acid groups, cyanoalkyl groups,and the like. The alkyl groups preferably contain from 1 to about 30carbon atoms. Alkyl phenyl silicones are particularly preferred. Alkylphenyl silicones are particularly preferred, especially those having aviscosity of from about 20, 25, 50, 75, 100, 125, or 150 cSt to about200, 250, 500, 750, 1000, 1250, 1500, 1750, or 2000 cSt at 25° C.

Particularly preferred base oils for use in formulations of preferredembodiments include Dow Corning® Brand Silicone Fluids. Silicone fluidsfrom Dow Corning are high-performance, liquid lubricating materials thatdemonstrate excellent performance over a wide temperature range. DowCorning® 200 Fluid, a dimethyl silicone fluid, is available in a rangeof viscosities (10 cSt or lower to 1,000 cSt or higher). Dow Corning®510 Fluid, a phenyl methyl silicone fluid, is available in 50 cSt orlower to 30,000 cSt or higher viscosities. It functions over a widerange of ambient temperatures (from −51° C. to 204° C.). Dow Corning®550 Fluid is a 125 CS phenyl methyl silicone fluid. It resists oxidationand has a wide service temperature range (from −40° C. to 232° C.). DowCorning® 710 Fluid is a 500 CS phenyl methyl silicone fluid withexcellent heat stability and resistance to evaporation and oxidation,and functions over a wide temperature range (from −18° C. to 260° C.).Dow Corning® FS-1265 Fluid is a fluorosilicon fluid with a viscosity offrom 300 cSt or less to 10,000 cSt or more. It resists oxidation, harshchemicals, fuels, and high temperatures, and functions over atemperature range of from −40° C. to 204° C.).

Particularly preferred white, off-white, and translucent white base oilsfor use in formulations of preferred embodiments include Dow Corning®Brand Silicone Fluids. Dow Corning® Brand Silicone Fluids are availablein light to heavy consistencies. For example, Dow Corning® 7 ReleaseCompound is a white-translucent light consistency dimethyl siliconecompound with a service temperature range of −40° C. to 204° C. and aspecific gravity at 25° C. of 1.0. Dow Corning® 4 Electrical InsulatingCompound is a white-translucent medium consistency dimethyl siliconecompound with a service temperature range of −57° C. to 204° C. and aspecific gravity at 25° C. of 1.0. Dow Corning® 111 valve lubricant andsealant is a white-translucent heavy consistency dimethyl siliconecompound with a service temperature range of −40° C. to 204° C. and aspecific gravity at 25° C. of 1.0. The FDA has permitted Dow Corning® 4and 7 Electrical Insulating Compounds and Dow Corning® 111 valvelubricant and sealant for food contact and they are listed under NSFStandard 51 for food processing, and NSF 51 for potable waterapplications. Another white, off-white, or translucent white base oilfor use in formulations of preferred embodiments is Dow Corning® 112high performance lube/sealant. Dow Corning® 112 sealant is awhite-translucent stiff grease-like silicone compound containing aninert amorphous silica filler in combination with selected polydimethylsilicone fluids. Dow Corning® 112 has a specific gravity at 25° C. of1.1. serviceability from −40° C. to 232° C., excellent water and oilresistance, good resistance to most chemicals, and low volatility.

Instead of or in addition to a base oil, a grease can be employed informulations of preferred embodiment. Such greases typically comprise abase oil and a thickener. Particularly preferred greases are designatedas suitable for food contact or processing, or potable waterapplications. Dow Corning's® Molycote® BG 20 High Performance SyntheticGrease is an example of a grease that can be used instead of or inaddition to a base oil in formulations of preferred embodiments.Molycote® BG 20 High Performance Synthetic Grease is a beige syntheticpolyolester grease with lithium complex thickener. Molycote® BG 20′sproperties include a wide temperature range if −45° C. to 182 ° C.

Polyethers suitable for use as base oils may include polyphenyl etherfluids, preferably those containing from 3 to 7 benzene rings and from 2to 6 oxygen atoms, wherein the oxygen atoms link the benzene rings,which may be hydrocarbyl-substituted. The hydrocarbyl substituents arepreferably free of unsaturated hydrocarbon groups. The preferredaliphatic substituents include saturated hydrocarbon groups containingfrom 1 to 6 carbon atoms, such as ethyl, propyl, butyl, and t-butylgroups. Preferred aromatic substituents include aryl groups such asphenyl, tolyl, t-butyl phenyl, and alphacumyl. Polyphenyl ethersconsisting exclusively of chains of from 3 to 7 benzene rings with atleast two oxygen atom joining the benzene rings exhibit superior thermalstability, for example, the polyphenyl ethers such as1-(p-methylphenoxy)-4-phenoxy benzene and 2,4-diphenoxy-1-methylbenzene; 4-ring polyphenyl ethers such as bis[p-(p-methylphenoxy)phenyl] ether and bis[p-(p-t-butylphenoxy) phenyl] ether, and the like.

Polyalkylene glycols (also referred to as polyalkylene oxides) arepolymers of alkylene oxides. Polyalkylene oxides and derivatives thereofwherein the terminal hydroxyl groups have been modified byesterification, etherification, and the like, also constitute a class ofsynthetic lubricating oils that can be utilized as a component of thebase oil. These oils include those prepared through polymerization ofethylene oxide and propylene oxide, the alkyl and aryl ethers of thesepolyoxyalkylene polymers such as methyl polyisopropylene glycol etherhaving an average molecular weight of about 1000, diphenyl ether ofpolyethylene glycol having a molecular weight of about 500 to 1000, anddiethyl ether of polypropylene glycol having a molecular weight of about1000 to about 1500. Polyalkylene glycols suitable for use informulations of preferred embodiments include PLURASAFE® Brand SiliconeFluids from BASF.

The base fluid may contain as its sole component a single base oil or amixture of two or more base oils (e.g., of different chemicalcompositions or same category but different characteristics, e.g.,different viscosities, viscosity indexes, molecular weights, produced bydifferent manufacturing processes, and the like). In certainembodiments, however, it may be preferred to combine one or more highviscosity polyalphaolefins with one or more other mineral or syntheticbase fluids.

The base oil(s) and/or base fluid(s) typically comprise from about 70wt. % or less to about 95 wt. % or more of the repellent formulation,preferably from about 75 wt. % to about 90 wt. % of the repellentformulation.

Thickener

The base oil is thickened into a grease base by addition of a thickener.Thickener systems that can be advantageously employed include fumedsilica, hydrophobic fumed silica, modified clay, dye and pigmentthickeners, thickeners such as carbon black, graphite,polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE), polyurea, and the like. The thickenercan be added to the base oil using methods conventionally employed forpreparing greases. Generally, a base oil is provided, or a blend of baseoils is prepared, and then the thickener is added to the base oil withmixing.

Silica gel is advantageously employed as it can increase theadhesiveness of the composition, thereby increasing the time of contactbetween the composition and the target rodent. Silica gel is a granular,vitreous, highly porous form of silica. Silica gel is commonly employedas a food grade desiccant. Fumed silica, also known as pyrogenic silica,is a non-crystalline, fine-grain, low density and high surface areasilica. Fumed silica has a very strong thickening effect. Primaryparticle size is 5-50 nm. The particles are non-porous and have asurface of 50-600 m²/g. Density 2.2 g/cm³. Fumed silica is made fromflame pyrolysis of silicon tetrachloride or from quartz sand vaporizedin a 3000° C. electric arc. Fumed silica serves as a universalthickening agent, a thickener in milkshakes, and an anticaking agent inpowdered foods. Like silica gel, it serves as a desiccant. Hydrophobicsilica is a silica that has hydrophobic groups chemically bonded to thesurface. Hydrophobic silica can be made both from fumed and precipitatedsilica. The hydrophobic groups are normally alkyl orpolydimethylsiloxane chains. The toxicological properties of silicasmake them desirable thickening agents for the grease bases of preferredembodiments.

Fumed silicas suitable for use in formulations of preferred embodimentsinclude AEROSIL 972™ manufactured by Degussa Corporation of Orange,Calif. or CABOSIL TS720™ manufactured by Cabot Corporation of Boston,Mass. AEROSIL 972™ is a hydrophobic fumed silica after treated withdimethyldichlorosilane. AEROSIL 972™ has a specific surface area ofabout 110±20 m²/g, an approximate tamped density of about 50 g/l, and anaverage primary particle size of about 16 nm. It is preferable that whenusing AEROSIL 972™, it is preferably present in the repellentformulation at from about 5.0 to 12.0 wt. %, and more desirably at about10.0 wt. %. CABOSIL TS720™ is an insoluble white powder having a densityof 2.2 g/cm³ at 20° C. It is preferable that when using CABOSIL TS720™,it is preferably present in the repellent formulation at from about 5.0to 12.0 wt. %, and more desirably at about 10.0 wt. %.

Soap thickeners prepared by combining one or more fatty acids with oneor more metal metal-containing components, e.g., alkali or alkalineearth metal hydroxides, oxide and/or isopropoxides can also beadvantageously employed as low cost, low toxicity additives. When a soapthickener is employed, the soap itself can be added to the base oil, orthe reactants yielding the soap can be added separately to the base oiland allowed to react. In certain embodiments it can be desirable toalter the mixing process and/or parameters, or the sequence of additionof components, as is appreciated by one skilled in the art. For example,the reactants yielding the soap may be added separately to differentbase oil components, or different portions of the base oil blend, thenthe partially additized blend components may be mixed. When reactantsyielding soap are employed, the reactants are typically added to thebase oil blend, and the mixture is heated to saponify the grease. Afterthe saponification reaction reaches a sufficient degree of completion,the grease is allowed to cool and the remaining additives areincorporated into the grease.

Preferred metal containing components include alkaline earth metalhydroxides, such as calcium hydroxide, which exhibits good waterresistance. Preferred fatty acids generally include those obtained fromvegetable sources which contain from 10 to 22 carbon atoms. A singlefatty acid or two or more fatty acids can be employed. Fatty acidscontaining 18 carbon atoms are particularly preferred, especiallystearic acid or 12-hydroxy stearic acid; however, other fatty acids canadvantageously be employed, including but not limited to gondoic acid,eicosadienoic acid, eicosatrienoic acid, eicosatetraenoic acid,eicosapentanoic acid, arachidic acid, arachidonic acid, behenic acid,erucic acid, docosapentanoic acid, docosahexanoic acid, ligniceric acid,butyric acid, caproic acid, caprylic acid, capric acid, lauric acid,myristoleic acid, myristic acid, pentadecanoic acid, palmitic acid,palmitoleic acid, hexadecadienoic acid, hexadecatienoic acid,hexadecatetraenoic acid, margaric acid, margroleic acid, stearic acid,linoleic acid, octadecatetraenoic acid, vaccenic acid, and linolenicacid. One or more or more additional fatty acids may be employed toprovide a more complex structure to the grease with increasedcross-linking. Although, higher molecular weight acids can provideadditional lubricity to the grease, they are generally inferior asadditional complexing acids. Accordingly, one or more lower molecularweight fatty acids are used, preferably fatty acids containing from 2 to10 carbon atoms, so as to provide greater cross-linking. Especiallypreferred is acetic acid.

To form the grease, the preferred alkaline earth (e.g., calcium) oxideor hydroxide is added to the base oil blend. Then, the fatty acids areadded. The saponification reaction occurs upon heating the metal andfatty acids to a suitable temperature, typically about 175° C. Theelevated temperature is then maintained, e.g., for about 20 minutes oruntil the reaction proceeds to a satisfactory degree of completion. Themixture is preferably stirred, either continuously or intermittently,during heating. After the resulting soap-containing mixture is cooled,the remaining additives are added. The preferred metal complex soapthickener is a calcium complex in which the fatty acid complex is formedby the reaction of calcium hydroxide with several organic acidsincluding acetic acid and 12-hydroxystearic acid.

The thickener(s) typically comprise from about 3 wt. % or less to 20 wt.% or more of the repellent formulation, preferably from about 4 wt. % toabout 15 wt. % of the repellent formulation.

Tackifiers

The base greases of preferred embodiments may contain various polymerswhich function as tackifying agents. The addition of polymers may add tothe viscosity and also to the adhesive qualities of the composition sothat the composition can be applied to both horizontal and verticalsurfaces. The ability to apply the composition to vertical surfacesenhances its utility because this increases the potential number ofsurfaces on which the composition may be used. Useful tackifying agentsinclude polymers like polybutene, polybutylene (e.g., polyisobutylene),olefin copolymers, methacrylates, polyalphaolefins, andethylene/propylene copolymers. Food grade tackifiers are particularlypreferred. Tackifiers are generally provided in a suitable carrier,e.g., paraffinic oil, naphthenic oil, while oil, or polyalphaolefin, andcan include polyisobutylene in white mineral oil and have a viscosityof, e.g., 2500 cSt @ 100° C. or more (e.g., 3000 or 4000 cSt @ 100° C.).

The tackifier(s) typically comprise from about 2.0 wt. % or less to 20wt. % or more of the repellent formulation, preferably from about 3 wt.% to about 15 wt. % of the repellent formulation.

Other Additives

Other additives as are known in the lubricating arts may also beemployed in the base greases of preferred embodiments. These includemetal deactivators such as benzotriazole, substituted benzotriazole and2,5-di-mercapto-1,3,4-thiodiazole, which protect ferrous and nonferrousmetal surfaces from corrosion. The base grease can also includeconventional fillers, thickeners, thixotropic agents, antioxidants,corrosion prevention materials, and the like, depending upon the surfaceto which the repellent formulation is to be applied. Solid lubricantcomponents can be added at any suitable step in the grease manufacturingprocess, for example, when the thickener is added if the thickener isnot a metal soap type which is formed by a chemical reaction in the oil.Solid additives are preferably added to the grease with sufficientmixing, working, homogenizing, or the like, to ensure a complete,uniform, and thorough dispersion of solid particles. Preferably, solidlubricants are added to the grease after the thickener is formed oradded.

Various compounds known for use as oxidation inhibitors can be utilizedin grease formulations of various embodiments. These include phenolicantioxidants, amine antioxidants, sulfurized phenolic compounds, andorganic phosphites, among others. Is it especially preferred that theantioxidant includes predominately or entirely either a hindered phenolantioxidant such as 2,6-di-tert-butylphenol,4-methyl-2,6-di-tert-butylphenol, 2,4-dimethyl-6-tert-butylphenol,4,4′-methylenebis(2,6-di-tert-butylphenol), and mixed methylene bridgedpolyalkyl phenols, or an aromatic amine antioxidant such as thecycloalkyl-di-lower alkyl amines (N,N′-di-lower-alkyl phenylenediamines,such as N,N′-di-sec-butyl-p-phenylenediamine, and its analogs), andphenylenediamines, or a combination of one or more such phenolicantioxidants with one or more such amine antioxidants.

A variety of corrosion inhibitors are also available for use in thegrease formulations of various embodiments, including dimer and trimeracids, such as are produced from tall oil fatty acids, oleic acid,linoleic acid, and the like. Other useful types of corrosion inhibitorsare the alkenyl succinic acid and alkenyl succinic anhydride corrosioninhibitors such as, for example, tetrapropenylsuccinic acid,tetrapropenylsuccinic anhydride, tetradecenylsuccinic acid,tetradecenylsuccinic anhydride, hexadecenylsuccinic acid,hexadecenylsuccinic anhydride, and the like. Also useful are the halfesters of alkenyl succinic acids having 8 to 24 carbon atoms in thealkenyl group with alcohols such as the polyglycols. Also useful are theaminosuccinic acids or derivatives. Preferably a dialkyl ester of anaminosuccinic acid is used containing an alkyl group containing 15-20carbon atoms or an acyl group which is derived from a saturated orunsaturated carboxylic acid containing 2-10 carbon atoms. Most preferredis a dialkylester of an aminosuccinic acid.

The various additives that can be included in the base greases ofpreferred embodiments are used in conventional amounts as are known inthe grease industry. The amounts used in any particular case arepreferably sufficient to provide the desired functional property to thegrease composition, and such amounts are well known to those skilled inthe art.

Repellent Formulations

The repellent formulations of preferred embodiments typically include acarrier agent, an activator agent, a repellent, a thickener, and atackifying agent, as described above. In some embodiments, the activatoragent, the carrier agent, and/or the tackifying agent may be omittedfrom the composition.

Preferably, the repellent formulation utilizes a white oil. White oilsinclude any of various highly refined, colorless mineral or hydrocarbonoils of low volatility and a wide range of viscosities. They aretypically used for lubrication of food and textile machinery and asmedicinal and mineral oils. White oils include technical white oils suchas USP or Technical Grade white oil, and can be used as a carrieragent/base oil in formulations of preferred embodiments. In suchembodiments, the white oil is typically present at from about 78.0 to88.0 wt. % in the formulation, and more desirably at about 83.9 wt. %.In other embodiments, white oil is desirably present at about 82.9 wt. %in the formulation. The repellent formulation preferably utilizes fumedsilica, such as AEROSIL 972™ manufactured by Degussa Corporation ofOrange, Calif. or CABOSIL TS720™ manufactured by Cabot Corporation ofBoston, Mass. When using AEROSIL 972™, it is preferably present in therepellent formulation at from about 5.0 to 12.0 wt. %, and moredesirably at about 10.0 wt. %. When using CABOSIL TS720™, it ispreferably present in the repellent formulation at from about 5.0 to12.0 wt. %, and more desirably at about 10.0 wt. %. The repellentcomposition preferably includes one or more tackifying polymers,preferably an olefin copolymer, polybutene, polyalphaolefin, orpolymethacrylate of suitable viscosity. The tackifying agent ispreferably present in the formulation in total at from 5.0 to 10.0 wt.%, and more desirably at about 5.0 wt. %. The repellent compositionpreferably includes an activator agent such as denatured ethanol. Whenusing denatured ethanol, it is preferably present in the formulation intotal at from 1.0 to 2.0 wt. %, and more desirably at about 1.0 part byweight. The repellent additive in the repellent composition ispreferably natural capsaicin. When using natural capsaicin, it ispreferably present in the formulation in total at from 0.025 to 1.00 wt.%, and more desirably at about 0.075 wt. %. Preferably, the repellentcompositions of preferred embodiments contain no menthol, peppermintoil, citronella, or other components that repel rodents by emitting anodor that rodents find offensive.

The repellent composition may preferably include one or more tackifyingpolymers, preferably an olefin copolymer, polybutene, polyalphaolefin,or polymethacrylate of suitable viscosity. In some embodiments, therepellent formulation utilizes two different tackifiers, preferablypolyalphaolefin and an olefin copolymer. In such a preferred embodiment,the tackifiers are preferably present in the formulation in total atfrom about 0.05 wt. % to about 10.0 wt. %. More preferablypolyalphaolefin is present in the formulation at about 5.0 wt. % and anolefin copolymer is present in the formulation at about 1.0 wt. %. Inpreferred embodiments where polyalphaolefin is present in theformulation at about 5.0 wt. % and an olefin copolymer is present in theformulation at about 1.0 wt. %, the white oil is preferably present atabout 82.9 wt. %.

EXAMPLES

Although the repellent compositions of preferred embodiments can be madeby various methods as will be appreciated by one of skill in the art,the following is an exemplary method for use in preparing a repellentcomposition of a preferred embodiment comprising technical grade whiteoil, denatured ethanol, fumed silica, tackifying polymer, and capsaicin.In a first step, the full amount of technical grade white oil is addedto a mixer. In a next step, denatured ethanol and fumed silica aresequentially or concurrently added to the white oil while mixing. Next,the mixture is heated up to about 120° F. (49° C.). The mixture ismaintained at this temperature while mixing until the fumed silica iscompletely or nearly completely dispersed and the mixture clear.Thereafter, the polymer tackifier is added while mixing and maintainingthe mixture at about 120° F. (49° C.). Mixing at about 120° F. (49° C.)is continued until the polymer is completely or nearly completelydissolved and the mixed product is clear. Then, the capsaicin iscompletely mixed in, and the product is cooled down to about 120° F.(27° C.). The repellent composition thus prepared is stable at ambienttemperatures in environments supporting rodents.

The examples below list different exemplary formulations for the RodentDeterrent composition of preferred embodiments. In the examples below,the column “Component” lists exemplary ingredients for the composition,the column “Mass %” lists desirable parts by weight of the ingredientsin the composition and the column “Range Mass %” lists exemplary partsby weight of the ingredients. The asterisk “*” indicates that the baseoil component is added to bring the total mass % up to 100%, after theother ingredients are accounted for.

Example 1

Component Mass % Range Mass % Technical Grade/USP White 82.925 78.0-88.0Oil Denatured Ethanol 1.0 1.0-2.0 Capsaicin (Natural) 0.075 0.025-0.075Aerosil 972 Fumed Silica 10.0  5.0-12.0 PAO 5.0  5.0-10.0 OlefinCopolymer/Tackifier 1.0 1.0-2.0

Example 2

Component Mass % Range Mass % Technical Grade/USP White 82.925*78.0-88.0 Oil Denatured Ethanol 1.0 1.0-2.0 Capsaicin (Natural) 0.0750.025-0.075 CabOSil TS-720 10.0  5.0-12.0 Olefin Copolymer/Tackifier 1.01.0-2.0 PAO 5.0  5.0-10.0

Example 3

Component Mass % Range Mass % Technical Grade/USP White 83.925*78.0-88.0 Oil Denatured Ethanol 1.0 1.0-2.0 Capsaicin (Natural) 0.0750.025-0.075 Aerosil 972 Fumed Silica 10.0  5.0-12.0 Polybutene 5.0 5.0-10.0

Example 4

Component Mass % Range Mass % Technical Grade/USP White 83.925*78.0-88.0 Oil Denatured Ethanol 1.0 1.0-2.0 Capsaicin (Natural) 0.0750.025-0.075 CabOSil TS-720 10.0  5.0-12.0 Polybutene 5.0  5.0-10.0

Example 5

Component Mass % Range Mass % Technical Grade/USP White 83.925*78.0-88.0 Oil Denatured Ethanol 1.0 1.0-2.0 Capsaicin (Natural) 0.0750.025-0.075 Aerosil 972 Fumed Silica 10.0  5.0-12.0 Ethylene/Propylene5.0  5.0-10.0 Copolymer

Example 6

Component Mass % Range Mass % Technical Grade/USP White 83.925* 78-88Oil Denatured Ethanol 1.0 1.0-2.0 Capsaicin (Natural) 0.075 0.025-0.075CabOSil TS-720 10.0  5.0-12.0 Ethylene/Propylene 5.0  5.0-10.0 Copolymer

The repellent compositions of preferred compositions can be applied tosurfaces using similar techniques to application of caulk. A line, bead,or strip of the repellent composition is applied to a surface in an areawhere rodents are to be repelled. When a rodent contacts the repellentcomposition, e.g., by stepping on it, the repellent composition istransferred to the rodent's paw. When the rodent attempts to remove therepellent composition, e.g., by eating it off, the repellent additive inthe repellent composition produces an unpleasant taste, therebydiscouraging the rodent from contacting the repellent composition again(e.g., attempting to cross a strip of the repellent composition).

The repellent compositions of preferred embodiments can offer numerousadvantages over conventional repellent compositions. The repellentcompositions of preferred embodiments can be odor free or low odor,enabling them to be employed in areas such as restaurants, stores, andhomes where odors would otherwise be offensive or unacceptable. Therepellent compositions of preferred embodiments are non-toxic andenvironmentally friendly, making them acceptable for use near soil orwater sources (rivers, streams, canals, water features, ground water,etc.), or areas inhabited by children, pets (e.g., dogs, cats) ornon-pest native species (e.g., native birds, mammals, reptiles,amphibians, fish). The repellent compositions of preferred embodimentsare tacky, enabling them to remain in place when applied tonon-horizontal surfaces (e.g., slanting, vertical, or inverted), and topersist on rodents' paws when contacted, which increases the repellenteffect when the rodents groom themselves to remove the repellentcomposition. The repellent compositions of preferred embodiments arealso water resistant, such that they can remain in place and retaintheir repellency when exposed to the elements (rain, snow). Therepellent compositions of preferred embodiments are stable and maintaingood viscosity/tackiness when exposed to hot or cold ambient conditions.

All references cited herein are incorporated herein by reference intheir entirety. To the extent publications and patents or patentapplications incorporated by reference contradict the disclosurecontained in the specification, the specification is intended tosupersede and/or take precedence over any such contradictory material.

Unless otherwise defined, all terms (including technical and scientificterms) are to be given their ordinary and customary meaning to a personof ordinary skill in the art, and are not to be limited to a special orcustomized meaning unless expressly so defined herein.

Terms and phrases used in this application, and variations thereof,especially in the appended claims, unless otherwise expressly stated,should be construed as open ended as opposed to limiting. As examples ofthe foregoing, the term ‘including’ should be read to mean ‘including,without limitation,’ ‘including but not limited to,’ or the like; theterm ‘comprising’ as used herein is synonymous with ‘including,’‘containing,’ or ‘characterized by,’ and is inclusive or open-ended anddoes not exclude additional, unrecited elements or method steps; theterm ‘having’ should be interpreted as ‘having at least;’ the term‘includes’ should be interpreted as ‘includes but is not limited to;’the term ‘example’ is used to provide exemplary instances of the item indiscussion, not an exhaustive or limiting list thereof; adjectives suchas ‘known’, ‘normal’, ‘standard’, and terms of similar meaning shouldnot be construed as limiting the item described to a given time periodor to an item available as of a given time, but instead should be readto encompass known, normal, or standard technologies that may beavailable or known now or at any time in the future; and use of termslike ‘preferably,’ preferred, ‘desired,’ or ‘desirable,’ and words ofsimilar meaning should not be understood as implying that certainfeatures are critical, essential, or even important to the structure orfunction of the invention, but instead as merely intended to highlightalternative or additional features that may or may not be utilized in aparticular embodiment of the invention Likewise, a group of items linkedwith the conjunction ‘and’ should not be read as requiring that each andevery one of those items be present in the grouping, but rather shouldbe read as ‘and/or’ unless expressly stated otherwise. Similarly, agroup of items linked with the conjunction ‘or’ should not be read asrequiring mutual exclusivity among that group, but rather should be readas ‘and/or’ unless expressly stated otherwise.

With respect to the use of substantially any plural and/or singularterms herein, those having skill in the art can translate from theplural to the singular and/or from the singular to the plural as isappropriate to the context and/or application. The varioussingular/plural permutations may be expressly set forth herein for sakeof clarity.

It will be further understood by those within the art that if a specificnumber of an introduced claim recitation is intended, such an intentwill be explicitly recited in the claim, and in the absence of suchrecitation no such intent is present. For example, as an aid tounderstanding, the following appended claims may contain usage of theintroductory phrases “at least one” and “one or more” to introduce claimrecitations. However, the use of such phrases should not be construed toimply that the introduction of a claim recitation by the indefinitearticles “a” or “an” limits any particular claim containing suchintroduced claim recitation to embodiments containing only one suchrecitation, even when the same claim includes the introductory phrases“one or more” or “at least one” and indefinite articles such as “a” or“an” (e.g., “a” and/or “an” should typically be interpreted to mean “atleast one” or “one or more”); the same holds true for the use ofdefinite articles used to introduce claim recitations. In addition, evenif a specific number of an introduced claim recitation is explicitlyrecited, those skilled in the art will recognize that such recitationshould typically be interpreted to mean at least the recited number(e.g., the bare recitation of “two recitations,” without othermodifiers, typically means at least two recitations, or two or morerecitations). Furthermore, in those instances where a conventionanalogous to “at least one of A, B, and C, etc.” is used, in generalsuch a construction is intended in the sense one having skill in the artwould understand the convention (e.g., “a system having at least one ofA, B, and C” would include but not be limited to systems that have Aalone, B alone, C alone, A and B together, A and C together, B and Ctogether, and/or A, B, and C together, etc.). In those instances where aconvention analogous to “at least one of A, B, or C, etc.” is used, ingeneral such a construction is intended in the sense one having skill inthe art would understand the convention (e.g., “a system having at leastone of A, B, or C” would include but not be limited to systems that haveA alone, B alone, C alone, A and B together, A and C together, B and Ctogether, and/or A, B, and C together, etc.). It will be furtherunderstood by those within the art that virtually any disjunctive wordand/or phrase presenting two or more alternative terms, whether in thedescription, claims, or drawings, should be understood to contemplatethe possibilities of including one of the terms, either of the terms, orboth terms. For example, the phrase “A or B” will be understood toinclude the possibilities of “A” or “B” or “A and B.”

All numbers expressing quantities of ingredients, reaction conditions,and so forth used in the specification are to be understood as beingmodified in all instances by the term ‘about.’ Accordingly, unlessindicated to the contrary, the numerical parameters set forth herein areapproximations that may vary depending upon the desired propertiessought to be obtained. At the very least, and not as an attempt to limitthe application of the doctrine of equivalents to the scope of anyclaims in any application claiming priority to the present application,each numerical parameter should be construed in light of the number ofsignificant digits and ordinary rounding approaches.

Furthermore, although the foregoing has been described in some detail byway of illustrations and examples for purposes of clarity andunderstanding, it is apparent to those skilled in the art that certainchanges and modifications may be practiced. Therefore, the descriptionand examples should not be construed as limiting the scope of theinvention to the specific embodiments and examples described herein, butrather to also cover all modification and alternatives coming with thetrue scope and spirit of the invention.

What is claimed is:
 1. A rodent repelling composition comprising: 70 to95 wt. % of a base oil selected from the group consisting of white oil,paraffinic oils, naphthenic oils, and aromatic oils, polyalphaolefins,glycols, polyalkylene glycols, alkylated naphthalenes, alkylatedbenzenes, esters and combinations thereof; 3.0 to 20 wt. % of athickening agent; 2.0 to 20 wt. % of a tackifying polymer selected fromthe group consisting of polybutene, polyalphaolefin, ethylene/propylenecopolymer, methacrylate, polyisobutylene, and combinations thereof;0.005 to 0.5 wt. % of a repellent agent selected from the groupconsisting of capsaicin, dihydrocapsaicin, nordihydrocapsaicin,homodihydrocapsaicin, homocapsaicin, nonivamide, vanillylamide ofn-nonanoic acid, piperine, allyl isothiocyanate, allicin, andcombinations thereof; and 0.25 to 5 wt. % of a solubility improvingadditive.
 2. The rodent repelling composition of claim 1, wherein thebase oil comprises a white oil, and where the white oil is composedmainly of C15-C40 alkanes and cyclic paraffins.
 3. The rodent repellingcomposition of claim 1, wherein the repellent agent is selected from thegroup consisting of capsaicin and piperine.
 4. The rodent repellingcomposition of claim 1, wherein the base oil comprises an oil selectedfrom the group consisting of silicone oil, white oil, vegetable oil, andcombinations thereof.
 5. The rodent repelling composition of claim 1,wherein the thickening agent is selected from the group consisting offumed silica, clay, and polytetrafluoroethylene.
 6. The rodent repellingcomposition of claim 1, wherein the solubility improving additivecomprises ethanol.
 7. The rodent repelling composition of claim 1,wherein the base oil is white oil, wherein the thickening agent is fumedsilica, wherein the tackifying polymer is ethylene/propylene copolymer,wherein the solubility improving additive is ethanol, and wherein therepellent agent is capsaicin.
 8. The rodent repelling composition ofclaim 1, wherein the tackifying polymer comprises a polyalphaolefin. 9.The rodent repelling composition of claim 8, wherein the polyalphaolefinhas a viscosity at 100° C. of about 3 to about 5000 cSt and a branchratio less than 0.19.
 10. The rodent repelling composition of claim 8,wherein the polyalphaolefin has an average molecular weight of fromabout 300 to about 45,000 and a carbon number of from about 30 to 1000.11. A method of repelling a rodent, comprising: applying the rodentrepelling composition of claim 1 to a surface in an area wherein rodentsare to be repelled, whereby rodents are repelled.
 12. The method ofclaim 11, wherein the base oil comprises a white oil, and where thewhite oil is composed mainly of C15-C40 alkanes and cyclic paraffins.13. The method of claim 11, wherein the repellent agent is selected fromthe group consisting of capsaicin and piperine.
 14. The method of claim11, wherein the base oil comprises an oil selected from the groupconsisting of silicone oil, white oil, vegetable oil, and combinationsthereof.
 15. The method of claim 11, wherein the thickening agent isselected from the group consisting of fumed silica, clay, andpolytetrafluoroethylene.
 16. The method of claim 11, wherein thesolubility improving additive comprises ethanol.
 17. The method of claim11, wherein the base oil is white oil, wherein the thickening agent isfumed silica, wherein the tackifying polymer is ethylene/propylenecopolymer, wherein the solubility improving additive is ethanol, andwherein the repellent agent is capsaicin.
 18. The method of claim 11,wherein the tackifying polymer comprises a polyalphaolefin.
 19. Themethod of claim 18, wherein the polyalphaolefin has a viscosity at 100°C. of about 3 to about 5000 cSt and a branch ratio less than 0.19. 20.The method of claim 18, wherein the polyalphaolefin has an averagemolecular weight of from about 300 to about 45,000 and a carbon numberof from about 30 to 1000.